[Study of infectious endocarditis using Doppler echocardiography]

Arch Mal Coeur Vaiss. 1990 May;83(6):793-803.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Infective endocarditis is still a common and serious disease. Echocardiography is an essential complementary investigation in this condition. Its value in the diagnosis of valvular vegetations has become more accurate since the introduction of two-dimensional and transesophageal echocardiography. Transesophageal echocardiography is currently the most reliable non-invasive technique for demonstrating small vegetations of less than 5 mm diameter. The diagnosis and surveillance of complications (valvular destruction, ring abscess) are also privileged indications of transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography coupled with intracardiac Doppler blood flow studies. The finding of these lesions may sometimes lead to early surgical management.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Echocardiography, Doppler*
  • Endocarditis / complications
  • Endocarditis / diagnosis*
  • Endocarditis / physiopathology
  • Heart Valve Prosthesis / adverse effects
  • Hemodynamics
  • Humans
  • Infections / complications
  • Infections / diagnosis*
  • Infections / physiopathology
  • Time Factors